I WAS GOING TO TAKE A LITTLE LONGER BEFORE I UPDATED BUT THE LATEST CHAPTER IN THE MANGA INSPIRED ME TO GET WORKING.
SHIT IS GOING DOWN. SHIT. IS. GOING. DOWN.
IDK HOW TO FEEL.
I do not own Magi.
Enigma
Chapter Sixteen:
The Scar and the Mark
"Kali, what... What if I were to tell you that I hated my mother?"
Kali paused, the bushel of flowers she'd had popping out of the wooden boards by Kouen's study coming to a slow halt. She frowned at her work, having hoped she could have turned his little study into a miniature forest to get back at making her spend the day talking to some of his other sisters—she couldn't even remember their names for goodness sake—and turned to a rather somber looking Hakuryuu beside her.
Kali's eyes followed the slumped shoulders, the heavy grip on the spear beside him, and the downcast eyes staring hard into the earth below them. Kali's eyes softened and she turned her head back to the plants before her, watching as flowers began to sprout forth. "I wouldn't mind."
"You...wouldn't?" Hakuryuu inquired softly, and Kali hummed.
"Everyone has their ups and downs, and not all families are perfect." Kali shrugged, turning to him with a small grin. "I never really had one either, since I lost them when I was younger. But sometimes we don't get along and that's just how it is, even if we share the same blood."
Hakuryuu grew silent, watching with blank eyes as Kali leaned forward, curling her fingers and coaxing a bundle of tulips to open up.
"What if I told you I wanted to kill my mother?"
Kali paused, her eyes widening for a moment before they settled into a calm stare. The young woman slowly turned, meeting Hakuryuu's silent gaze with a quiet one of her own. "Why would you want to do that?"
Hakuryuu's gaze was hard, those beautiful blues like chips of ice, frozen in place by the cruel scar reminding him of everything she stood for. "I'm sure you would understand more than my siblings who Ren Gyokuen truly is."
She felt Camio stir in her mind, wary. But Kali found no fear as she gazed at Hakuryuu, the only emotions flickering through her something akin to sadness and regret.
Even to someone like him...
"Maybe." Kali shrugged, shoulders rising as she gaze Hakuryuu an even look. If what he wished was to face her head on as someone coming to her for power, she would not look at him as she'd done before, but instead treat him as she would any other military leader. "But even then—"
"My mother was the one responsible for murdering my father and my eldest brothers," Hakuryuu began quietly. "My sister and I were the only ones who made it out of the fire. And now she has latched onto my uncle and is planning to throw this country into further turmoil."
Kali's eyes flickered, watching as the Rukh beat about Hakuryuu, powerful, wild. His fists clenched at his sides and he took a step forward, meeting Kali's gaze with everything he had. "I want to take down the Kou Empire."
"Even if it meant going to war with your family?"
Hakuryuu faltered before shaking his head. "She isn't family. What I seek isn't a civil war; I want to rid the Kou Empire of their organization and everything to do with them."
Kali's eyes glittered faintly at that, inwardly glad that he had hesitated before answering. He wasn't looking to hurt anyone else, he just wanted revenge.
But that itself was already a dangerous thing.
"What can a simple traveler do for you?"
"Kali, you have power." Hakuryuu stepped forward. "Perhaps more than Kouen himself."
"You want me to fight him?" Kali's eyes glittered, feral, and Hakuryuu shook his head.
"I want you to help me." Hakuryuu's eyes narrowed in determination and he stood before her, shoulders squared, eyes intense. "When the time comes for me to make my move, I want to know whether or not I can count on your support."
Kali did not hesitate.
"I will always support you." Kali reached forward, lightly punching Hakuryuu's chest and causing the prince to blink in surprise as she turned her eyes upwards, offering him a small smile. "I will always be willing to help you, Hakuryuu. When you need help, I'll be there."
Nothing more, nothing less.
"Thank you, Kali."
I won't let you fall.
"Snakes amidst the grass, snakes within the seas."
Kali felt her eyes flutter open, blinking drowsily as she squinted against the blinding light streaming down through the arching windows. Slowly her mind churned, registering the sight of the smooth, arching ceiling above her as she blinked once, eyes sharpening as she took in the entire room before her.
Sinbad's office.
"You dozed off trading stories while he was avoiding paperwork." Camio filled in softly. Kali nodded in understanding, letting out a small yawn as her friend added. "He doesn't seem to mind monopolizing your time."
He's just that kind of a guy. Kali blinked once, noticing the empty office before her as her eyes strayed to the paperwork still littering the desk. Her eyes paused, landing on the small item placed on a soft bed of velvet within a glass box and a wry smile touched her lips.
"What's this?"
"A present."
"Y-You're actually giving me something? No way—"
"It's nothing too fancy. I thought about jewelry but you already have too much of that."
"I love it."
"Just think of it as a commemorative present for your promotion—fisherman's son to a king."
"Traveler to a queen."
It was a small miniature sword carved of glass. It'd taken several hours with Raum and Ose helping walk her through the process as she attempted to perfectly mold the thing with just the right amount of detail. A glass copy of Sinbad's first sword—the one his father had given him.
I'm not surprised he kept it. Kali settled back against the soft texture of the couch, eyes softening.
"You are his friend after all."
Kali shifted her legs to stand and found a heavy weight on them. Blinking once she tipped her head downwards and paused, realization dawning on her as she gazed into the peacefully sleeping face of Sinbad. His deep purple locks were strewn loosely over her legs, bangs falling in angles across his face as he breathed, chest rising and falling in time, his hands settled peacefully over his stomach.
"He looks far less stressed out like this." Camio noted. Kali hummed in agreement, fingers reaching forward and idly shifting his bangs apart, her own eyes trailing over his face. "If I could give him this kind of peace I would."
But Sinbad has his own burdens to bear.
And she did as well.
"I'm more curious as to how he got you to settle down long enough for him to sleep like this."
Probably more tired than he looks. Kali let her hand rest atop his head, turning her own gaze skywards as she gazed at the long, curving ceiling above her, a thoughtful look on her face. When he's like this I don't mind though. Easier to deal with.
It was in gentle moments like these that she was simply Kali, and he was simply Sinbad. These moments, wonderful and few, were the kind she found herself constantly drawn towards. Because no matter what happened, no matter where they went, she would always be there for him. A mistake she had made long ago but would never regret.
Kali shut her eyes, letting memories, easy, nostalgic flutter through her. A warm smile touched her lips and she leaned back, idly combing her fingers through Sinbad's silky locks as she tipped her head upwards.
A warm, calloused hand reached upwards, entangling in her sooty locks. Kali spared the man below her a glance and Sinbad offered her a warm smile, eyes shining as he gazed up at her. "What would I have to do to be able to wake up to this for the rest of my life?"
Kali hummed, as if in thought as his fingers combed through her hair. "Enough food to last me more than a life time and a nice place to sleep."
Sinbad arched a brow, eyes sparkling. "That could be arranged."
"And world peace."
"With you at my side I believe it can be done."
Kali laughed, breezy, light, but to Sinbad, it was the sound of the wind drifting further away from the sails of a ship reaching shore. Golden eyes darkened as his hand drifted downwards, cupping her cheek as Kali simply offered him a crooked grin. "And a night with you?"
"The moon and the stars," Kali grinned.
Sinbad laughed, deep, his eyes like molten gold as his fingers slipped through her hair, curling through and weaving his fingers in between. "For you, I'd gather the entire world."
"Ambitious." Kali's eyes drifted toward his fingers, a frown slipping over Sinbad's face for a moment as her gaze seemed to grow far away for a moment, gazing at the feathers woven into her braid as she pulled her head back. "You shouldn't make promises you can't keep."
"Perhaps the sevens seas first," Sinbad mused, his fingers slowly slipping through her hair and coming to rest on his stomach. "Fair enough?"
"I'll think about it."
A knock sounded on the door and Kali glanced upwards, Sinbad's gaze never leaving her face as he spoke up. "Come in."
Ja'far slipped through the door, taking one look at the two of them before rolling his eyes and sliding his hands into his sleeves. "There are documents regarding the new trade routes that need signatures."
Sinbad sighed, shutting his eyes as Kali grinned. Ja'far sighed as well; silencing reigning over them for a moment as Kali paused, realizing Sinbad wasn't speaking. "What are you doing?"
"Trying to see if I can imagine this is all a dream." Sinbad answered calmly. "And force myself to not wake up."
Kali snorted while Ja'far rolled his eyes. "Amusing."
Kali's eyes sparkled and she disappeared, Sinbad wincing when his head collided with the nothing else beneath. A pout played on his lips as he rubbed his head turning to Kali who had appeared beside Ja'far. "Well, while you get to work, I've got other things plans as well."
"Like what?" Sinbad sighed.
"Far more important things than you, I assume," Ja'far answered. Sinbad shot his friend a look and Kali simply grinned.
"I promised Kougyoku I'd talk to her today," Kali answered calmly. Sinbad paused at that and Ja'far looked a little relieved.
"At least you can be on good terms with her," the vizier ran a hand over his face, grimacing. "After everything that I happened I would rather let things simmer down before speaking with her again..."
"Oh, it was all a misunderstanding in the end." Kali patted Ja'far's shoulder and smiled at him warmly before throwing Sinbad a smirk and disappearing.
Sinbad gazed at the now empty spot for a moment before sighing, slumping down in his chair and turning to Ja'far.
"You don't think she'd ever like them more than us, do you?"
"Kali? No, I don't think so." Sinbad let out a sigh of relief and Ja'far added. "But if you continue your ways you might just drive her away yourself."
"J-Ja'far..."
"H-Hey, that hurts!"
"You're hurting me as well!"
"It's stuck! It's stuck!"
"Let go of me!"
"They seem to be getting along."
Kali laughed nervously, eye twitching as Aladdin and Kougyoku gripped each other's hands in a vice like grip. The two of them seemed to be practically at each other's throats, trying in vain to make amends for the animosity that had occurred between them. Well, it's to be expected...
"I was hoping to join in but it looks like you guys are already having fun without me," Kali began with a small laugh, sliding into the fray and efficiently separating Kougyoku and Aladdin.
"Kali!" Kougyoku's eyes brightened.
"Kali-nee-san!" Aladdin exclaimed.
The two froze, eyes darting to each other before Kougyoku quickly marched forward, throwing her head high as she slipped an arm through Kali's. "L-Listen here! I've known Kali for a very long time and the two of us are close friends, all right?"
"But Kali-nee and I are good friends too!" Aladdin frowned, stepping forward. "And we've known each other for a long time—"
"I like both of you." Kali interrupted, smiling warmly at the two of them as she grinned. "You're both my friends."
"She stayed with us in Kou!"
Aladdin frowned, looking confused at how Kougyoku was acting. "She helped us in Balbadd too..."
"S-She is my brother's—"
"Friend." Kali beamed and the two of them glanced to her curiously as she hurriedly added. "We're all friends here. No need to argue—there isn't much too really fight over anyway. I'm just glad you can all meet together like this."
"Better than fighting each other on a battlefield," Camio murmured.
"Kali..." Alibaba started, and Kali turned, offering the blonde prince and Hakuryuu a wide smile, nodding to Morgiana as well.
"Hey! How is everyone?" Kali couldn't help but feel her eyes brighten when she took in the sight of all of them together. It should be like this. "Do you guys have plans today? We should go grab something to eat—"
"I think I'm fine for awhile..." Alibaba paled, idly rubbing his stomach in memory as Aladdin laughed, Kougyoku shooting him wary glances.
"Kali." Kali turned toward Hakuryuu, the prince bowing his head slightly. "How are you?"
"Great! I'm sorry we didn't get the chance to really talk about everything yet—"
"There will be time for that later," Hakuryuu smiled, looking at ease as he continued. "It is nice to see that you are such good friends with King Sinbad as well."
"All the easier to have you both backing him then," Camio mused. Kali hushed her friend as Kougyoku stiffened, idly playing with the ends of Kali's sleeve.
"W-Well, Kali is just that kind of a person..." Kougyoku blushed, glancing aside. "So I'm sure that's all...there is..."
"Nothing more, nothing less." Kali agreed. Kougyoku seemed to visibly relax and Kali made a mental note to persuade the girl when it came to the kind of guys she seemed to be fond of.
"Eh? But you and Uncle Sinbad seem like awfully good friends..." Aladdin looked confused, putting a hand to his chin in thought.
"K-Kali is just that kind of a person!"
"They've known each other for a long time too..."
Kali laughed, mindlessly swaying from side to side as Kougyoku tugged this way and Aladdin calmly brought her back. Words flew this way and that, Kali simply grinning at the two and throwing in her own words here and there. Kali's eyes softened and she inhaled, breathing in the warmth surrounding her—this is how it should be. They didn't deserve wars and troubles and battles to fight—they deserved to enjoy their life as it was without any worries—to live.
There was a flutter, light, heavy. Kali froze, pausing as her gaze flickered upwards to where Hakuryuu and Alibaba were talking.
Hakuryuu seemed solemn, as if unaware of the words that were leaving his mouth and the effect they were having on Alibaba. Kali's began to grow wide at the strained look on Alibaba's face, his hand gripping his arm tightly.
Beside her Aladdin paused, turning away from Kougyoku with furrowed brows. "Alibaba?"
Alibaba ground his teeth, brows furrowing as the grip on his arm tightened. Kali's eyes flickered, catching the flutter of dark wings shifting this way and that as Aladdin and Morgiana stepped forward, concerned looks on their faces. "Alibaba...?"
"Why is he..." Camio trailed off and Kali's eyes went wide at the darkening stain growing around Alibaba's arm, a rush of rage sweeping across the gardens and slamming into them. Hakuryuu's eyes widened and the prince stepped forward as Alibaba let out a cry of pain, falling to the floor and clutching his now darkening arm. "Alibaba!"
I should have been more careful! "Alibaba!" Kali quickly swept forward, kneeling down on the ground and grabbing the boy's shoulders, eyes wide as Alibaba ground his teeth. "Alibaba? Can you hear me—" Her eyes landed on the dark stain plastered against his neck, pulsing, withering and her eyes darkened, a look of fury flashing through her eyes as she turned to everyone behind her.
"Alibaba is..." Aladdin's eyes went wide and Kali grimaced.
"Is he all right?" Kougyoku stepped forward and Kali glanced back to the fallen prince, vines quickly trailing outwards from her necklace and entwining around him.
"I cannot get through to it," Camio reported back quickly. "It's the same as others. It seems my powers cannot permeate deep enough for curses like these..."
"Hold onto me," Kali ordered. Kougyoku and Aladdin quickly grasped onto her sleeve before Hakuryuu and Morgiana did the same. Kali inhaled, bracing herself for the amount of people she was carrying with her as she laid a hand on Alibaba, grasping him tightly and shutting her eyes.
There was a flicker, a shift in the air and Kali felt the world tighten around her, wavering from the uncertain amount following her before she shoved forward and they all disappeared.
The group reappeared in the hospital wing, Kali relaxing as nurses and servants turned, quickly rushing over to them.
Her eyes landed on Alibaba and she felt her fingers curl into a fist at her side, eyes narrowed.
They got in this deep.
"What happened?" Sinbad's Rukh washed over her as he stepped into the hospital wing, hurrying over toward them in purposeful strides.
His eyes shot toward Kali first, running up and down before she inclined her head and Sinbad turned to Alibaba with furrowed brows. "Alibaba—"
"Its fine," Alibaba smiled weakly, motioning to the inky stain spread across his skin as he winced.
"Sinbad," Kali murmured. The king turned toward his friend and caught Kali's hardened gaze, his eyes turning back toward a smiling Alibaba as Aladdin stood beside him, worry drawn clear on his face.
"It's just my arm..." Alibaba started before he jerked, grinding his teeth together in pain when a voice rung outwards, loud and clear.
"Even after all my provoking you still won't attack him?" Kali stiffened, eyes shooting upwards as she took a step back, throwing an arm out in front Aladdin and everyone else. Sinbad drew his sword, narrowing his eyes as a black fog shot outwards from Alibaba's arm, swirling through the air as it began to take shape. "Truly, you are a spineless man!"
"Even in Sindria..."
Like hell I'm going to let them do what they want here. Kali's eyes narrowed, fury pooling through her as the shadowy figure smirked. The man from before appeared, Kali cursing when she realized what Sinbad had defeated in Balbadd must've simply been another doll.
Camio let out a noise of disapproval, disgust dripping from his voice as he spoke, "The amount of effort it takes to kill them is horrifying."
All the better when it can actually be done.
"But thanks to you, I was able to overcome the barrier and enter Sindria." The Al Thamen member smirked.
So he hitched a ride onto Alibaba like an insect. Kali scowled, eyes narrowing as the man chuckled darkly. "And now—"
There was a flash before her and Sinbad lunged, bringing his sword upwards into an arch as he brought it down upon the man without any mercy. The man's eyes widened for only a moment before his smirk settled on his face, the two halves of his body splitting in two before a surge of blood rushed outwards.
"My king!" Kali stepped toward Sinbad as behind her Aladdin's borg went up, evaporating the blood in seconds.
Vines quickly threw themselves around her, wrapping thickly over her skin as the blood splattered across her form. Kali's eyes went wide as the vines withered, a hissing sound escaping the blood as it fell upon the plants and turned them to ash. Kali's eyes hardened and she whirled around, Sinbad simply narrowing his eyes, unaffected by the blood splattered across his face.
The Al Thamen member chuckled once more, body slipping back together. "So the magi alone noticed..."
"What the hell is this blood?" Sinbad inquired coldly.
"There's magic within it," Camio observed, vines curling around her arms and reaching outward to touch the pool at her feet when Kali quickly jerked it back. It hurts you.
Her eyes snapped toward Sinbad, worry beginning to quickly fill her at Camio's news. Rage followed the fear and she ground her teeth, grasping Raum's hilt as it burned at her side.
"It's too late," the man smiled. "I've place the fatal curse of our Father's will upon you. That's our invitation to you, First-class Singularity, King Sinbad! And King Alibaba, the candidate chosen by 'Solomon's arrogant interference'."
Alibaba's eyes narrowed and Aladdin stiffened, Morgiana tense and ready to fight as Kali gripped Raum tighter. "Become a dark king and be subjugated by our father! This will take hold of the veins of your magoi and color your Rukh black. Eventually, you will be reborn as completely different people. In other words, you will Fall..."
"Fall?" Aladdin whispered, and Kali took a step forward, face expressionless.
"Should you resist, Solomon's Rukh and the black Rukh inside your bodies will destroy each other and eventually, you as well." The man smirked. "I shall be waiting or you in the darkness of the Fall—"
"Raum."
A flurry of heat filled the room, wild and ravaging as ruby red flames licked outwards. The man's eyes went wide as Kali appeared before him, eyes steely as he smirked. "You—"
Without another word Kali pierced through him with Raum. His eyes glittered brightly as blood splattered outwards, but ruby red flames licked outwards and enveloped her entire body, hissing violently as the blood collided harmlessly with the flames and Kali pressed forward. The man's smirk dropped and Kali brought her head forward, her gaze meeting his beneath the mask as she offered him a feral grin.
"Not this time."
In a flurry of ashes and blazing flames the man disappeared. Kali leapt back, landing beside Sinbad as her eyes narrowed, gazing at the spot where the man had just been as if waiting for him to appear once more.
"Sindria as well..."
Kali quickly gripped the metal feather around her neck.
We won't let them.
The air was heavy.
Kali could only cross her arms over her chest, brows furrowed and eyes staring intently ahead of her as she hovered by Sinbad's side, worry trailing off of her in silent waves. Beside her Yamraiha finished wrapping up the mark stained across Sinbad's chest and arm, the blackened stain plastered across his face. Before her Alibaba gazed down, clearly troubled by what had happened. The eight generals hovered about; wary looks on their faces as well. Sinbad glanced upwards and smiled. "Don't worry about it. There's no such thing as a curse. This is a type of magic. Isn't that right?"
"Yes, this black bruise... It's being controlled by magoi," Yamraiha affirmed.
"If it's magic, then there's sure to be a way to reverse it, right?" Aladdin began hopefully.
"But I've never seen magic like this." Yamraiha frowned, a worried look flashing across her features. "Just what kind of commands is it being manipulated by? Complicated magic spells can only be reversed by the caster himself..."
"No way..." Aladdin murmured.
"Kali," Kali glanced upwards as Morgiana stepped forward. "One of your vessels can heal, right? Can it..."
"Bringing back someone from near death is easier than reversing a spell with my powers," Kali sighed regretfully, a vine weaving itself between her fingers as she held it up, Camio glowing in response. "Camio's powers can heal wounds and poisons and such, and it's even easier when I'm the one in trouble since I'm the wearer, but when it comes to magic spells, his powers barely even affect the magic."
"There's just one possible solution," Sinbad began finally. Kali turned to him in surprise as he clasped his hands together. "Further to the south of Sindria, on an island inhabited by the Torran, there's a dungeon."
Kali's eyes flickered in interest at this, Alibaba and everyone's eyes growing wide as Sinbad continued. "The sixty first dungeon, Zagan, which, if captured, will give you the power to heal any would or illness. The djinn that lives in that dungeon might save us. Would you like to bet on that chance, Alibaba?"
"A life djinn," Camio murmured, and Kali paused, tipping her head. "Powers similar to my own but unique in its own way."
Well, I like you better. Kali idly rubbed her fingers over the metal feather around her neck, Camio chuckling quietly in her mind as she added. What I want to know is why Sinbad thinks it might be able to help even when you can't do anything... Is Zagan that powerful?
"Perhaps in his own way," Camio said. "But our powers range differently."
Alibaba's eyes hardened and he lowered his head. "Yes."
Sinbad nodded, standing. "I would like to go with you, but that's not possible." At their surprised looks Sinbad continued, Kali glancing to the side. "Will you be able to go on your own?"
"What do you mean by that?" Morgiana murmured.
"If I or any of my Household members try to go through the sacred gate of a dungeon, we'll just slip through and nothing will happen." Sinbad raised his hand and his eyes lowered to the bracelet around his wrist. "The came about when I made my contract with my seventh djinn. The seventh djinn said 'I believe you already have enough.'"
"Most likely, they're unable to grant more power to metal vessel users who've already gained too much." Ja'far explained.
"I would tag along to help," Kali added, a rueful smile on her lips as they glanced to her. "But my powers don't work well within dungeons, and right now, I need the mobility to be able to move around." I can't be caught up in a dungeon if they come with spears raised.
Alibaba's eyes hardened. "I understand. We'll try to do it on our own. And I promise you that I'll reverse this curse."
"Please let me go with them." Kali's eyes flickered to the side where Hakuryuu stood, clasping his hands together.
"It's true that I told you to follow these three and learn from them," Sinbad said. "But dungeon capturing is another matter entirely. It'll be extremely dangerous."
Hakuryuu stepped forward. "I understand. I've wanted to capture a dungeon and have been searching for a magi."
Sinbad blinked, "But the Kou Empire already has a magi, Judal. And I've heard he's been sending each of your generals into the dungeons."
Hakuryuu's eyes flickered and he lowered his head, shaking it slightly. "No, Judal is the one person whose power I cannot allow myself to rely on."
"I suppose it's good that he thinks this way..." Camio began quietly. Kali's eyes lowered to the ground and she frowned. "But even so..."
"Very well, you may go with them." Sinbad nodded and Hakuryuu quickly straightened.
"Thank you very much."
"I sense unease, my king." Camio's voice flooded her mind and Kali hummed quietly, eyes running over the group before her almost worriedly. "You out of everyone believe in them the most..."
Even then, I can't help but worry. Kali's eyes flickered to Sinbad and back to them. I think there's more to this than it seems, but right now, this is the best plan.
Kali let a smile fall onto her lips and she stepped forward, a hand clasping onto Alibaba's shoulder as well as Hakuryuu. The two princes looked to her in surprise and Kali beamed, flashing them a wide smile. "I'm sure you guys will do fine. You're both really strong!"
Alibaba offered her a small smile and Hakuryuu nodded. Kali's eyes softened and she leaned forward, pulling them close for a one armed hug. The two before her stiffened in surprise and Kali gripped them close, "Don't worry, we've got your backs."
A small flower curled around the collar of their clothes and began to bud, hidden just beneath the nape of their necks as Kali pulled back and flashed them a grin, a light blush on Hakuryuu's cheeks while Alibaba rubbed the back of his head with a small smile.
"Should things get dire we can at least lend them some magoi."
Kali pressed a fist to both of their shoulders, eyes twinkling as she flashed them a wolfish grin.
"Go beat this dungeon to the ground."
"You look concerned."
Kali snorted, a light laugh leaving her lips as Sinbad gazed at her with a small smile despite the large mark across his face. Kali shook her head in disbelief, leaning back on her hands as she sat on his desk. "I am concerned."
Sinbad arched a brow, looking at her curiously as Kali continued. "I hope Aladdin and everyone will be fine..."
Sinbad's brow twitched and he smiled, leaning back against his chair with a sigh. "And here I thought you were concerned about me for a moment."
"I was at first," Kali admitted. "But then I remembered you're you and I figured you'd suck it up and be fine."
Sinbad chuckled, deep, but Kali frowned as she reached outwards, her hand cupping his cheek as she gazed at the dark stain marring his face. "But that doesn't mean I'm still not worrying all the same."
Sinbad's eyes flickered and he tipped his head slightly towards her hand. "It's not like I'm in any pain."
"That's no excuse for them to do it."
"When I use my magoi is the only time it starts to act up."
"Then you can't fight."
"I'll be fine." Sinbad turned toward Kali's worried gaze and smiled. "Besides, I know when you're hanging around; you won't let anything happen in regards to that organization."
"No, I suppose I won't," Kali's hand fell from his face and her brows furrowed. Her eyes flickered, anger at Al Thamen, annoyance towards herself. "But even if this is just some complicated magic—you're not in the kind of condition to be put in such threatening positions with the way you are—"
"I doubt this is stronger than what I already have," Sinbad murmured, raising a hand upwards and gripping his fist together tightly. Kali grew silent at that, gazing at Sinbad quietly as he offered her a small smile. "I've handled worse."
"I know," Kali's fingers curled. "I was there."
Sinbad's eyes softened and he ran his fingers over hers. "If what they want is Alibaba and I to fall, the best place for them right now can only be the dungeon."
"So that it why," Camio spoke up and Kali gazed at Sinbad for a moment, watching as he folded his hands together and furrowed his brows, gazing intently at the desk. "Though I'm more worried about the relationship between Hakuryuu and Alibaba..."
"They're good kids," Kali answered automatically, eyes flickering to Sinbad as she added. "They'll pull through."
Sinbad hummed, a thoughtful look on his face. Kali gazed at him for a moment longer before tipping her head back slightly. "You look evil."
Sinbad halted, looking up at Kali in surprise as she gazed at him honestly. "You looked worried at first, but now it just looks like you're scheming."
Sinbad opened his mouth to reply before stopping, a curious look on his face that instantly set Kali at ease as Sinbad leaned back. "I do? I was just wondering how I can try to make sure they'll be fine later on... Well, that's unsettling."
Kali's shoulders relaxed and Sinbad stood, offering her a hand as he smiled. "Shall we check up on them?"
Kali's eyes twinkled. "You don't trust them on their own?"
A wide smile split Sinbad's lips. "Do you?"
"Caught, my king."
"How are things going in the dungeon?"
"It looks like they're doing fine for now," Yamraiha reported happily, a small smile on her lips as she watched the water figures run down a set of stairs. "Earlier they were split into two groups, but now they've come together and they're working as one."
Warm sunlight shone through the windows of Yamraiha's study. Stacks of books littered the desks and shelves around them, long vines and plants spreading outwards along the ceiling as potions bubbled and metallic pieces tinkled. Kali wished for the familiar sense of ease and curiosity that always followed her whenever she was in Yamraiha's study, but the worry and edginess was beginning to wear down on her.
"That's good to hear," Ja'far smiled, looking relieved. "I must say that I was a little worried, but I assume Alibaba and Hakuryuu are getting along well now."
Beside him Sinbad looked unconvinced, brows furrowed deeply. "I hope that's the case." Turning to Yamraiha he added, "Can't you get us some more details?"
"Unfortunately, no," Yamraiha offered him an apologetic smile. "However, if any lives are lost, these water dolls will vanish, so until that happens, we can assume that all is well."
"Should anything occur, we will feel it." Camio reminded her and Kali nodded. "When they need it we can feed through some magoi, but not much. Keeping this link through the dungeon is going to put strain on you already."
I'll manage.
Yamraiha jolted, the water formations of everyone suddenly disappearing. Kali's eyes went wide and she stiffened, Camio quickly informing her that the link was still solid. Ja'far stiffened and Sinbad stepped forward. "Yamraiha?"
"Don't tell me they're..."
"No, that's not it!" Yamraiha exclaimed. A look of pain flashed across her face and she gripped her staff, shutting her eyes before she cried out. "No good! Can't hold it any longer!"
There was a flash of light and a flurry of seals and commands appeared before them, weaving around wildly before the crystal beside Yamraiha's desk cracked and the storm of seals before them vanished in a flash of light. Yamraiha stumbled and Kali rushed forward, propping the magician upwards. "Y-Yam?"
"The barrier..." Yamraiha ground out, clutching at her chest as Sinbad's eyes went wide and she forced herself to stand, leaning slightly against Kali. "Someone..."
Sinbad turned, rushing from the room and heading outside to the balcony, Ja'far close behind. Kali gripped Yamraiha and vanished, reappearing along the balcony of the palace as Sinbad skidded to a halt beside them. Soldiers piled in after, spears raised and ready as their eyes turned skywards.
They're going to attack Sindria? Kali felt her heart seize, alarm flashing through her. But how could they break through Yam's barrier—
"Look, my king."
Kali's eyes snapped upwards and she froze, disbelief flickering through her eyes as a flutter of black washed over her, curling around tighter and tighter until the white Rukh surrounding her extended, battling the shadows aside. Long, ebony locks donned up into a braid swung outwards, crimson irises glittering darkly.
"Judal?" Kali breathed and beside her Sinbad stiffened.
"Judal!"
Ja'far turned around, motioning toward the soldiers. "Activate a level one emergency alert! Deploy the Imperial Guards in the Crystal Plaza!"
"Yes, sir!"
Ja'far quickly sprinted out from the balcony, making his way to the plaza below as Kali remained frozen for a moment, a startled look upon her face at the sudden turn of events as soldiers rushed to the plaza below, the sound of Pisti's whistle ringing out as a white bird soared overhead, coming to a halt beside one of the rooftops.
Judal? Kali's brows furrowed. Why would he... No, the Kou Empire wouldn't make an attack like this—Kouen wouldn't do something like this. He has no need to attack Sindria after Sinbad's meeting with the emperor, so who...
Kali's lips pulled back into a scowl and she nearly snarled, her entire form flickering as she disappeared.
"Al Thamen." Camio sounded grim. "Is Judal here under their orders?"
He never liked them very much. The world around her shifted and Kali felt smooth stone beneath her feet as she reappeared amidst the flurry of soldiers, watching as Judal landed in the plaza with a smirk. I don't think he's here for them.
I hope.
"Why so grim looking?" Judal teased, eyes flickering as Ja'far appeared before the palace doors, eyes narrowed in hate as he scowled.
"You..." Ja'far gripped his blades, electricity crackling wildly around him as they shot outwards. "Bararaq Sei!"
Judal smirked, bringing his wand upwards and pointing it toward Ja'far attack. The blades slammed harmlessly into the magi's borg and Ja'far eyes went wide as Judal flicked his wand and a flurry of wind coiled together in a cyclone, shooting outwards and slamming into the vizier. Kali stiffened, eyes growing wide in horror.
"Out of my way, trash. My business is with Sinbad."
Ja'far staggered upwards, eyes darkening as he spat to the side, bringing his blades upwards once more, matted locks shielding steely irises. "What did you say?"
Judal smirked, only to have his lips twitch when Kali appeared, standing in front of Ja'far with an emotionless expression on her face. Judal paused, tipping his head back. "Hey, Kitten, I didn't think you were seriously hooking up with these guys now."
Ja'far stiffened, gripping his blades tighter. Kali remained still, vines rising from the earth and extending outwards to Ja'far as she faced Judal evenly. "Judal."
"Kali," Ja'far rose upwards. "Don't let him—"
"I could say the same for you, hot head." Kali flashed Ja'far a small smile as her eyes warmed. The former assassin paused and Kali turned her gaze forward.
"That's a pretty serious face you have, Kitten," Judal smirked. "Don't tell me you're mad at me? Eh? Do you hate me now?"
"Don't be stupid," Kali snapped. Judal paused, watching her silently as she gazed at him with furrowed brows. "I could never hate you."
Judal's eyes flickered, annoyance coloring his features as Kali stepped forward. "Judal, why are you here—"
"You've got a bad habit of backing up weaklings," Judal muttered, eyes narrowing at her as Kali stood firm in front of Ja'far. "You're not going to get anywhere like that—you need to be with strong people, powerful people! That's when things get exciting!"
"Something seems different about him somehow," Camio murmured. "My king, I fear that you may not be able to talk to him as you did before—"
Judal will always be Judal to me. "Then what are you doing here?" Don't make me fight you.
Judal didn't reply, his eyes flickering to the vines weaving upwards from the ground and wrapping around Ja'far. "You know, kitten, you shouldn't be throwing around your magoi like that." Judal's eyes darkened. "You're going to need it soon."
Ja'far stepped forward beside her. "Bastard—"
"Ja'far." The white haired assassin beside her froze, bending at the knee and slumping. "Kali."
Kali said nothing, standing where she stood without moving an inch as a wide smile split Judal's face as Sinbad stepped forward. "What do you want, Judal?"
"You look awful, Sinbad," Judal pouted, a disappointed look across his features as he rested a hand on his hip with a sigh. "What's that thing on your face?"
"I doubt that you came here to speak about my face," Sinbad answered coldly.
Judal smirked, eyes glittering darkly. "You're as cold as always, huh?"
There air shifted, Kali's eyes darted to the stream of black Rukh fluttering past as Judal leaned back, lips curling upwards. "Sinbad, what do you think of him?"
Sinbad's face remained stony, eyes hard as he gazed at Ja'far. "Who are you talking about?"
"You know...Aladdin." Judal smirked, raising his hands upwards. "It doesn't make sense, does it? For there to be yet another magi in this world?"
Judal's eyes darted towards Kali and he added. "You know that too, don't you?" Kali remained silent, watching Judal quietly. "In any given era, there' sonly been three magi. You know that, right? And that's borne out of history. It was always three magi who chose kings and built nations, and created this world. And that's how it is for this era to, isn't it?"
Sinbad's gaze remained cold, chin titled to the side as he eyed Judal calmly. Ja'far shifted, standing beside him and Kali remained still, listening as she watched Judal carefully.
"First, there's me. Then there's that old hag in Reim. And that guy who wanders around the world, summoning dungeons and then disappearing... You know him." Judal's eyes snapped toward Kali once more. "You both do."
"And?" Kali questioned softly.
Judal's eyes darkened. "That should be all of us. If a new magi were to appear, then one of us had to have died. But I've received no such information. So who the hell is he? A fourth magi existing for the first time in history...Aladdin!"
"What's wrong with that?" Judal paused, turning to Kali as she offered him a small smile, eyes watching him warmly.
"What?"
"What's wrong with a fourth magi?" Kali raised her shoulders in a shrug. "I don't see the problem. Just because it hasn't happened before doesn't mean it's wrong." Judal's eyes narrowed, watching Kali sharply, but a wide smile split her lips. "I think this world needs some changing."
"He isn't supposed to exist." Judal snapped.
"Neither am I," Kali held her hands outwards, offering him a wry grin. "But here I am."
Black and white fluttered wildly, Kali well aware that he could see the Rukh whirling around her as her eyes softened. I'm not asking you to accept him, Judal. I'm not asking you to play the good guy.
"Besides," Kali offered Judal a wide smile. "I like Aladdin."
Judal froze.
"He may not be as amazing as you yet, but he has potential."
"Judal, you're amazing!"
Judal simply smirked, his fingers curling tightly at his side as he turned back to Sinbad, not even sparing Kali a glance. "And on top of that, he shows up with a mysterious power I've never seen before. Ever since then, the old guys in the Organization have been thirsting for that power. I thought that maybe you might have the same thing in mind."
Sinbad's eyes narrowed. "What are you implying?"
"Drop the clueless act!" Judal smirked, pointing his wand towards Sinbad. "What are you up to? What are you planning to accomplish by using that little twerp?"
The air grew heavy, tightening around everyone as Kali remained silent. Beside her Sinbad remained still, unaffected as he gazed at Judal. "It has nothing to do with you."
Judal's lips quirked upwards. "You're one heartless man—is that why you've gone and gathered up all these people like this? Even Kitten too? You're really playing your cards right if you're getting her to back you up—"
"I've known Kali longer than any of that." Sinbad answered calmly, sharp and cold. "Far longer than you."
Judal paused, the corner of his lips twitched before he sneered. "Is that so? Can't you see I'm lonely here? I wanted to join forces with you."
"You're a member of the Organization," Sinbad said flatly, his eyes growing dark. "Have you forgotten what you did to us that day in Partevia?"
Several soldiers stiffened, Ja'far nearly snarling as the soldiers gripped their spears, eyes narrowed in hate. Judal remained still, gazing at Sinbad calmly. "Don't give me that look, Sinbad... Not when I'm..."
Kali paused, eyes flickering upwards as tears pooled in Judal's eyes. Her own eyes went wide with disbelief at the action as Judal stepped forward. "Not when I'm just as much a victim of Al Thamen!"
Sinbad stiffened beside her, eyes growing wide in disbelief and Judal turned his gaze upwards as Kali froze, taking a step forward. "That little magi... He showed it to me... My past... I was chosen by the Rukh and born in a tiny village in the east. But my parents were soon murdered by the Organization. They took me away and have been using me as a magi since before I even understood anything. Ever since I was an infant, see? And yet... are you saying that it's all my fault?"
Judal don't do that. Kali's hands curled into fists at her sides and her she turned her head slightly.
Judal stepped forward, a pained look on his face. "I wish I could've led an ordinary life too!"
The magi hit his knees, falling to the ground and clutching at his head as he sobbed. Kali's eyes turned elsewhere and Sinbad stopped, a look of disbelief on his face as he stepped forward. "Judal..."
Judal's shaking sobs began to subside, a bubble of laughter beginning to break through as Sinbad froze, eyes growing wide. Judal's head snapped back and he laughed, shoulders shaking as he wiped tears from his eyes. "Oh, man, I can't hold it in! What, did you start feeling sorry for me? You are really nice, man!"
Sinbad's eyes narrowed and he scowled, anger flickering across his face. "Judal!"
"Don't get me wrong, what I just told you is true, but I don't give a damn about any of that." Judal chuckled. "I'm just going to keep doing as I please, just as I always have!"
"You keep saying things that are true and things that aren't." Judal paused, looking forward as Kali appeared in front of him, her brows furrowed ever so slightly, the wry grin and mischievous smile slipping off her face. Red eyes met gray and Kali offered Judal a small smile. "No one's going to believe you like that."
Judal smirked, his hands curling at his sides. "Are you calling me a liar, Kitten?"
"I am." Judal's hands tightened into fists, nails biting into his palm as Kali gazed at him warmly. "Because you are."
"So?" Judal's eyes brightened and he laughed. "Could it be that you felt bad and you think I really do feel sad about it? You're too soft—"
"I do feel bad for you." Kali answered simply and Judal halted. "I feel awful for you, Judal."
Black flickered, wings beating, uncertain. Kali's eyes remained focused intently on Judal's gaze and she stepped closer, only a few inches shorter than the magi before her as a wide smile split her lips. "I'll always feel for you."
I'll never leave you behind.
Judal's lips pulled up into a sneer, but Kali's gaze remained focused on him as Judal barked out a laugh. Behind her Ja'far stiffened in disbelief, but Kali never once moved her gaze from the falling person before her as Judal leered over her. "You're something else, Kitten. You know, when I hear you talk like that, it makes me want to prove you wrong."
A jagged edge jutted against Kali's throat, Judal smirking as he gazed down at her, his wand pressed against the soft skin. "Should I?"
Kali's eyes flickered. There was a glimmer from her hair and Judal's eyes darted to the dragon pin entwined with her braid for the briefest moment, and it was all Kali needed to know.
A firm hand clasped onto hers, jerking her backwards as Judal's eyes flickered, refocusing onto the people before him as Sinbad stood before Kali, narrowing his eyes at Judal.
"Did you come all the way from Kou just to taunt me?" Sinbad inquired evenly, his voice hard as he gazed at Judal. "If so, I commend you for your effort. But if that's all you have to say, why don't we show you the full force of our hospitality?"
Judal paused, eyes glancing toward the side where the eight generals stood, spread out around him and waiting, ready. A smirk touched Judal's lips and he chuckled, raising his head. "That's right, I almost forgot. The old guys in the Organization are coming after you for real!"
Sinbad stiffened and Kali's eyes grew hard. "You only have yourself to blame, Sinbad. You made the geezers totally lose it when you took in the little twerp and his friends. They're not taking their usual approach, but are coming in person to destroy this country."
Kali felt her body tense, coiling tightly as Judal tipped his head back, a wide smirk splitting his lips. "They mean war."
"So they've finally come."
"And that's not all," Judal grinned. "You thought that if you sent them to Zagan they'd be safe, didn't you?" Kali's head shot upwards at that and Judal's grin widened. "Too bad."
"What do you mean?" Sinbad snapped. "Don't tell me you sent some of your own into the dungeon?"
"I told you! These guys are serious." Judal's grin turned wicked. "You know, Sinbad, I really wanted to join forces with you. I thought conquering the world with you—what could be greater than that? But lately, I've been thinking. Since you're so insanely powerful, it'd be a lot more fun to try and kill each other, you know?"
Kali froze, looking at Judal in disbelief as he smirked, an excited look flickering through his eyes. Sinbad blinked beside her. "Ho?" Amber eyes darkened into pools of melted gold and Sinbad's eyes narrowed. "So why don't we get started right away?"
Judal laughed, his eyes growing wide with excitement. "Not so fast! I've got a lot going on too, you see. My job for today was to break this country's barrier."
"What?"
"So listen, Sinbad, try not to get killed by these old geezers. Not until my Kou Empire and Sindria start killing each other for real."
Kali's eyes darkened at that, Judal stepping forward eagerly as Sinbad's eyes narrowed. "The Kou Empire would blow your mind right now. You can even ask her! We've got five dungeon capturers.
"He truly wants a war between the two of them?"
He knows how to pick the players. Kali mused dryly, her heart clenching despite the faint grin pulling at her lips. The one war I'd like to stop the most from ever happening.
Kou against Sindria.
It frightened her how easily she knew what she would do should that happen.
"The first princess, Ren Hakuei. The eighth princess, Ren Kougyoku. The third prince, Ren Kouha. The second prince, Ren Koumei." Judal's eyes brightened and Kali couldn't help but pale ever so slightly at the name she knew would leave his lips next. "The first prince, Ren Kouen."
The familiar faces flared through her mind, bright, prominent, the memories quietly tucked away so they wouldn't hurt her like this. Kali grin turned into one of a grimace as she felt her hands clench at her sides.
Can I fight them? Any of them?
"But the real gem is Kouen," Judal grinned. "If he and I were to join forces, we could take over the Eastern Continent in the blink of an eye!" Judal's eyes snapped forward and he smirked. "You can attest to that, can't you, Kitten?"
She imagined Kouen in such a situation, knowing full well that he could very easily do so with the strength and numbers of the growing Kou Empire. But for Kouen to make his attack toward the west...
"I want to unify the world."
Sinbad paused, glancing to Kali. The woman beside him let a rare smirk crawl over her features, Judal pausing as Kali grinned, eyes flashing. "We had this conversation before, didn't we Judal?"
Judal's eyes narrowed and Kali's grin widened, several glimmers illuminating her body as the metal vessels surrounding her shone to life. "In a fight I could beat Kouen."
Though it would be extremely painful and taxing and I would be at my wits end... Kali swallowed, truly feeling she could take Kouen on in a head to head battle. But a battle against his army? A different story entirely. Kouen after all is strong... But even then, there will always be numbers against both him and me.
"And next would be this place." Judal's bloody irises lit up as he grinned. "The Kou Empire is going to destroy Sindria!"
The generals tensed, drawing weapons and nearly lunging forward as Judal smirked. Sinbad's eyes narrowed and Ja'far scowled, standing tall beside him.
"Are you sure about that, Judal?"
Judal's eyes turned toward Kali, a flare of heat licking outwards and enveloping the entire plaza, harming none but targeting one. Judal's eyes narrowed and his borg appeared, shielding him from the onslaught of flames as Kali threw him a feral grin. "That's a dangerous declaration."
"Are you sure about that, Kitten?" Judal's eyes flickered. "Or is this your final call?"
Are you siding with them or us?
"You should think this over too; you don't belong to this country." Kali glanced upwards as Judal's gaze suddenly brightened, eyes shining. "You should just come back to Kou! You know everyone would take you back with open arms if you did."
Kali felt Sinbad stiffen beside her. "If you joined our side that would end it!"
Join forces with Kou or protect Sindria.
"You know me, Judal," the magi before her paused as she flashed him a wild grin, eyes glittering darkly. "What do you think?"
"Heavy burdens you shoulder onto yourself, my king." Camio murmured softly. "For standing alone is the hardest of them all."
"Destroy?" The soft voice broke through the thickening air and Kali paused, flames dispersing as Judal halted as well. "Judal, what are you talking about?"
Judal simply turned to a concerned looking Kougyoku. "Well, for now, not Kou but the Organization will be." Kougyoku's eyes went wide and Judal stepped forward. "That's why I'm telling you to come home already. I know you probably fled here because you lost face after the whole Balbadd fiasco, but I'll make you a general."
Kougyoku's cheeks flushed and she hesitated, eyes flickering downwards. Judal grinned, stretching a hand out towards her. "You were so pumped to fight for your country as a warrior, remember?"
Kougyoku flinched, her eyes growing wide as she paused, gaze flickering toward Sinbad and Kali. Kali offered her a small grin in response. Judal arched a brow, looking at her curiously before shrugging. "Well, whatever. Anyway, what I'm here to say is..."
Judal's eyes sharpened, bloody red irises digging intensely into amber as he grinned wickedly. "Don't you die on me until I kill you!"
Sinbad remained silent, gazing evenly at Judal as he smirked, lunging upwards. "See ya!"
Judal's eyes flashed and he paused, twirling his wand in his hand before he halted, glancing back toward Kali. "Oh, and Kitten, you better look out for yourself."
Kali's eyes narrowed before they widened slightly, realization flickering through her as red eyes met her own gaze before turning away.
"If you keep backing up weaklings like this, you're going to really get yourself hurt."
And with that, Judal shot upwards, disappearing through the gaping hole he'd created through Yamraiha's barrier.
"If you keep backing up weaklings like this, you're going to really get yourself hurt."
"Hey, Sin! Are you just going to let him get away like that?" Ja'far stepped forward, a look of annoyance settled deep onto his features as Sinbad shook his head, turning toward his vizier.
"Just ignore him. Now is not the time to fight him." Sinbad's eyes hardened. "Have the eight generals gather in the White Aries Tower."
"My king?" Camio whispered quietly.
A warm body beside her shifted and Kali turned, eyes meeting amber as Ja'far and Sinbad paused beside her. She met his gaze evenly, waiting silently as Sinbad gazed at her. The conversation that had just happened before the, the declaration of war and the blatant proposal from Judal to return to the Kou Empire, all of it wrapping around them and bouncing about between their heads.
A warm smile touched Sinbad's lips, one that reached his eyes this time as he simply walked past, his grin so terribly brightening as well as his Rukh as he stepped past her. His hand stretched outwards, ruffling her head in a way only he could ever make welcoming before he stepped aside. Kali remained rooted to the spot as Ja'far simply gave her that look that seemed to hope she knew what she was doing as he followed after Sinbad.
There were no questions.
No doubts.
The very warmth of the idea surrounded Kali. The fact that no words needed to be spoken, Sinbad did not hesitate, did not once question her. Despite the words tossed about, the unspoken things that had occurred that he knew nothing about, he'd gazed at her as he always did, as he always would, over and over again no matter what and turned, not needing to confirm what they already knew. Her heart swelled, fingers trembling as everyone began to move around her, shifting, rushing to prepare for the inevitable battle that she had yet to stop once more.
They trusted her.
In his own way, Judal is right, isn't he Cam? Soft vines curled around her fingers, mimicking a hand grasping onto hers as she gripped tighter in response. I saw through him and he saw through me.
"Pick a side, Kitten."
Otherwise you'll be torn apart.
She stood there, surrounded by the warmth of her friends—the trust and faith they had in her no matter what. She could turn her back and disappear and they would greet with open arms, and she knew it went for both sides in that aspect. But the warmth was like sunlight streaming through the ocean. She could see it; she could smile at it, knowing it was there.
But she couldn't feel it.
And there she stood, surrounded by the warmth of the trust people so willingly placed in her.
And Kali had never felt so alone.
GUYS. GUYS. GUYS.
SOMEONE HELP ME.
THE MANGA.
THE MANGA RIGHT NOW.
I AM IN DISTRESS.
D:
I knew something was going to happen eventually, we all knew. But I couldn't help but sit there the whole time with my fingers crossed and pray that Sinbad please don't get involved.
Knowing Ohtaka though, there is most likely going to be much more going on right now then what we think and Ohtaka will find some way to stab a knife into our hearts and twist it around.
-cough- Alma Torran arc –cough-
NOT TO MENTION WHAT IS GOING ON IN THE SINBAD NO BOKUEN MANGA RIGHT NOW TO. LIKE SERIOUSLY WTF RIGHT NOW.
Sinbad nooooo :(
And it's kind of funny, but while I was rewatching this episode to get a feel for what happened, I saw the seen with Hakuryuu saying he would not want to ever rely on Judal and when I look at what's happening I can't help but feel like Hakuryuu you little liar look at you now.
BUT OTHERWISE.
I hope you all enjoyed the chapter! :D I'm looking forward to the Sindria arc as well as finally closing it up and really jumping into the plot that starts to come around afterwards, for both Kali and the story line.
THANK YOU ALL FOR BEING WONDERFUL AND I HOPE YOU ALL ENJOY.
Marshmellow-
-OUT!
